Brood-haha on bikes!

Gone are the days of typical family bonding sessions. Unconventional ways of spending time seem to be the way forward. We take a closer look into the burgeoning trend of Bengaluru-based couples taking to the pedal to catch up and spend quality time together! What’s more, even young parents are ‘gearing up’ to catch up with their little ones – while saddling away! In a candid chat, they tell us more...

“In the stride of everyday chores, both at the work front and personal commitments, the idea of rekindling and bonding over takes a back seat. We’re both fitness enthusiasts and this is a hobby which helps us stay fit, hang out, explore places and most importantly communicate. I think it’s a brilliant idea, as you’re generally in a better mood when you’re cycling. So thoughts are less convoluted,” reveals Harish Venkatachalam, a city-based business manager who often indulges in a good cycling session with his wife Archana.

Interestingly, while the activity that promises a sudden rush of endorphins, the idea has also led to a rise in the number of individuals signing up for causes of social importance.

“For me, this is not just a brilliant way of rekindling the lost spark in a long-term relationship like marriage. It brings a wave of new energy into our lives. It’s been nine years since we gifted each other bicycles and we are thoroughly enjoying the idea. But what’s most important is that it has enabled us to build a lot of stamina and endurance and now we are into multiple sports like marathons, swim-a-thon, triathlons and brevets. The couple activity which started out as a plan to blow off some steam together is leaving us with the satisfaction that we are now able to make a difference by cycling for social causes. This is probably the best idea for couples who haven’t figured a common ground for their interests,” opines Swamy, a software professional, who often indulges in a cycling session with his wife Sushma. What’s more, in the refreshing new trend, even new-age parents are milking the opportunity to bond better with their kids. Vinod Kumar, a professional biking enthusiast has his little one tagging along during small sessions!

“I know and have personally experienced the benefits of cycling. I wanted to introduce the same to her (my daughter, Viva). While she thoroughly enjoys cycling away; what I relish most is how she has begun to feel that I’m more of a companion than an authoritative figure, so bringing her up has become relatively easier. My word of advice to people wanting to try this would be to take it easy. Don’t get rattled by the speed or the kilometers covered when you are with someone. The activity primarily is to help one enjoy the journey,” he ends.